News

Education alumna sees her way through tragedy, parenthood to UMSL degree

During her time at UMSL, Kristin Bass assumed guardianship for her two nephews following the death of her mother. She had to take some time off school but returned determined to finish her degree and earned her MEd in 2014. (Photo by August Jennewein)

Education alumna Kendra Vaughn’s creative teaching gets kids reading

Reading Specialist Kendra Vaughn has helped numerous students in the Hazelwood School District learn to love reading after graduating from UMSL with an MEd in 2005. Her 17-year career and teaching style has earned her an Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award and landed her on NCI’s 30 Leaders in their Thirties list, among other honors. (Photo by Marisol Ramirez)

Derrik Wiggins Named Teacher of the Year in Kansas City Public Schools

“The truth is, education is power,” he said. “It’s the power to determine a mindset, a knowledge, a culture, social behavior, class, importance. We have the honor to be able to give that to our students every day.”